Nonpoint Source Pollution, Marine Monitoring and Coral Reef Program

DEQ’s Nonpoint Source Pollution branch protects public health and the environment by controlling polluted runoff from entering receiving waters through the use of best management practices. This branch is responsible for keeping CNMI waters clean and healthy for beneficial uses through demonstrations of best management practices, and engaging in public education awareness campaigns. Each year NPS coordinates and promotes environmental awareness through campaigns such as the Environmental Symposium and Expo during Earth Day, and the EcoArts Festival.

The CNMI Coral Reef Initiative was started in 1997 in conjunction with the first International Year of the Coral Reef. Funding through US Coral Reef Initiative Mangement and Monitoring Grant programs provided renewed momentum for this program. For more information: www.cnmicoralreef.net/

Executive Directive 235 establishes the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas' Coral Reef Initiative Program under the Office of the Governor with an interagency structure to coordinate coral reef issues. The agencies include the Coastal Resources Management Office, the Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Division of Environmental Quality. The interagency group is tasked with protecting coral reefs and implementation of Local Action Strategies projects.

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What is Nonpoint Source Pollution-

Nonpoint Source Pollution is pollution that is caused by rainfall moving over and through the ground, picking up natural and man-made pollutants depositing them into our coastal and ground waters. Nonpoint Source Pol ... more

About the team-

The NPS Staff provides technical, outreach and logistical support and assistance with nonpoint source pollution, coral reef and marine monitoring issues.more

Laolao Bay Road and Coastal Management Project- September 22, 2009

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Talakhaya Watershed Resortation Project -

A watershed is an area of land where the water drains to a common point. In the CNMI, we have 11 major watersheds, all of which eventually drain to the sea. Drop by drop, water is channeled into soils, creeks, streams, gr ... more